Understanding Energy Certificates (NZ-ECs)
- Oct 1, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 10
Transitioning to Renewable Energy: Your Guide to Energy Certificates in New Zealand
Transitioning to renewable energy is a vital step in reducing emissions. One practical way organisations in New Zealand can achieve this is through Energy Certificates (NZ-ECs). Each certificate you purchase represents 1 MWh of renewable electricity generated and verified within New Zealand. This can significantly help in reducing your Scope 2 emissions.
In this article, I will answer common questions about NZ-ECs, the BraveTrace NZECS system, and how MyImprint can support you through the process.
Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Understanding Energy Certificates
What Are Energy Certificates, and Why Should I Purchase Them?
Energy Certificates are issued from 100% renewable energy generators connected to the national grid. Each Energy Certificate (NZ-EC) represents 1 MWh of renewable electricity generated. When you purchase NZ-ECs, you match your annual energy consumption with the same volume of verified 100% renewable energy.
This system allows you to report zero Scope 2 electricity-related emissions under the market-based approach. It can also show progress towards your carbon reduction goals.
What Is BraveTrace NZECS?
The New Zealand Energy Certificate System (NZECS) is administered by BraveTrace. It serves as the national platform for issuing, trading, and redeeming NZ-ECs. The NZECS provides a transparent and auditable system that ensures NZ-ECs are uniquely assigned, preventing double-counting.
What Is a BraveTrace NZECS “Participant”?
A BraveTrace Participant is a service provider that purchases, transfers, and redeems NZ-ECs. MyImprint is an official NZECS "Participant" and can act on behalf of clients to secure and redeem NZ-ECs against their electricity use.
What Does Having an Active BraveTrace Account Mean?
Having an active BraveTrace account means MyImprint can redeem NZ-ECs against your electricity use. The BraveTrace NZECS system records and tracks each NZ-EC's renewable attributes to ensure it is only claimed once, thus preventing double claiming.
What Is the BraveTrace NZECS Production Year?
The NZECS Production Year runs from 1 April to 31 March. After the Production Year closes, BraveTrace calculates and publishes the New Zealand Residual Supply Mix (RSM), in accordance with the GHG Protocol dual-reporting requirements.
What If My Financial Year Doesn’t Match the BraveTrace Production Year?
If your financial year does not align with the BraveTrace Production Year, you will need to make two purchases:
For the months remaining in the current Production Year.
For the remainder in the following Production Year.
To accommodate this, MyImprint charges one-third of the account management fee for your financial-year “top-up” purchase. For example, if your financial year runs from July 2025 to June 2026, you will make one purchase for July 2025 to March 2026, paying the MyImprint fee. Then, you will make another purchase from April 2026 to June 2026, paying 1/3 of the MyImprint fee.
How Much Does a NZ-EC Cost?
Prices vary depending on market conditions and the volume purchased. Smaller volumes are often more expensive due to fixed transaction costs. Contact MyImprint to find out the current pricing.
Will I Get Automatically Invoiced If I Have an Active BraveTrace Account Through MyImprint?
Yes, accounts are invoiced annually upfront unless you notify us to deactivate your account.
Why Does MyImprint Charge an Administration Fee on Top of the BraveTrace NZECS Annual Fee?
MyImprint is a “Participant” in the BraveTrace Network, giving clients access to purchase energy certificates. The BraveTrace NZECS Annual Fee covers the cost of maintaining an active account on the NZECS. The MyImprint Administration Fee covers the time it takes us to:
Prepare paperwork.
Open your BraveTrace account.
Negotiate NZ-EC purchases with renewable electricity generators.
Support you through the process and ensure clarity.
Please note that this is a fixed fee, regardless of whether you purchase 5 or 1,500 NZ-ECs, as the administrative workload remains the same.
Can I Purchase NZ-ECs Once the Production Year Is Closed?
BraveTrace allows a short grace period for purchases, limited to the 30th of April following the end of the Production Year. Operational activities may still be completed then, though earlier action is strongly encouraged.
The Benefits of Transitioning to Renewable Energy
Transitioning to renewable energy is not just about compliance; it's about making a positive impact. By purchasing NZ-ECs, you contribute to a sustainable future. This helps reduce your carbon footprint and supports the growth of renewable energy in New Zealand.
How MyImprint Can Help You
At MyImprint, we aim to simplify your sustainability journey. We understand the complexities involved in transitioning to renewable energy. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you are just starting or looking to advance your sustainability efforts, we can help.
Conclusion
In conclusion, transitioning to renewable energy through the purchase of NZ-ECs is a practical and impactful step for businesses in New Zealand. With the support of MyImprint, you can navigate this process with ease. Together, we can work towards a more sustainable future.
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